Suggest Appropriate Specialist For Treating Depression And Alcoholism

Posted on Wed, 21 Feb 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 Answered on

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : My dear friend of 20 years has been suffering for years with isolation, depre aression, alcoholism, and is emotionally cold and not able to connect with anyone. He is 48 years old and is living in a prison of his own making. We are discussing this with his doctor but I am wondering what type of psychiatrist he should see? He says he is drinking to shut off his mind. He owns a successful restaurant but is unable to do the most simple things for himself.

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

Consultation

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Generally speaking, antidepressants don't work when someone is actively drinking. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, which counteracts antidepressants.

I recommend he see a psychiatrist who is board-certified in addiction psychiatry to address this as a major problem.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Alexander H. Sheppe, Psychiatrist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad